Bolton Wanderers and Tranmere Rovers are keen on Preston North End defender Josh Earl.
The Lilywhites are open to loaning out the 20-year-old next season for more first team experience, according to journalist Alan Nixon on Twitter.
Earl, who is 6ft 4inc, won’t be short of options with it looking like he will be playing in League One this upcoming campaign.
Bolton are in the hunt for numerous signings to bolster their threadbare squad and are looking to strike a deal with Preston for the youngster.
Phil Parkinson’s side are having their problems off the field but are hoping a few signings can boost morale around the club with just under a week before the start of their third tier season.
The Trotters will have to battle with Tranmere Rovers for Earl’s signature though. Micky Mellon’s side are eager to bring in another defender to give them more options and depth.
The Whites have been busy this summer following their promotion from League Two and have signed the likes of Sid Nelson, George Ray, Kieron Morris, Calum Woods, Stefan Payne, Darren Potter and Corey Blackett-Taylor.
Earl was born in Southport and joined Preston at the age of nine. He rose up through their youth ranks and has since played 33 times for their first team, as well as going out on loan to non-league side Lancaster City in 2016.
